Capital Region Fire Companies to Host Fire Prevention Events

Did you know that cooking is one of the most dangerous things you can do in your home, accounting for 49% of all home fires? There is a significant amount of work to be done to properly educate the public on safe cooking practices, and the Capital Region Council of Government fire companies have found an engaging and exciting way to do so.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention,” aims to address the simple, yet important, actions one must take to keep themselves and those around them safe while cooking.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week, provides these key safety tips to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire:

• Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• Have a “kids-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Additional tips in conjunction with this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme can be found at www.CapitalRegionFirefighter.org/Fire-Prevention-Week/

“Our fire companies are committed to providing lifesaving public education to prevent future casualties caused by fires. Each fire company puts their own unique spin on a fire prevention event, finding an engaging and fun way to educate the community,” said Scott Ryno, Program manager of the Capital Region Council of Government's SAFER grant.

Fire Prevention Events for All Ages At Local Fire Companies

Throughout the duration of Fire Prevention Week, from October 8 to October 14, and the entire month of October, fire companies throughout the East Shore, West Shore and the Capital Region are hosting fire prevention events to educate members of the community. Regional events are listed below, updates can be found at www.CapitalRegionFirefighter.org/Fire-Prevention-Week-Events/

Camp Hill Fire Company

Event: Fire Company’s Open House
When: Saturday, October 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Fire company’s station– 2198 Walnut St., Camp Hill
Description: Attendees can use a hoseline to put out a fire, with the help of a Camp Hill volunteer, tour and ride on top of a fire truck, meet Sparky the fire safety dog, enjoy food and other treats, have their face painted and more.

Citizens Fire Company of Highspire

Event: In attendance at Highspire Bureau’s Trunk or Treat
When: Sunday, October 22 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Highspire Memorial Park– Lumber Street, Highspire
Details: Attendees will be able to meet their local firefighters and learn about volunteer opportunities. Attendees can also enjoy free candy, treats, activities, games and more.

Hampden Township Volunteer Fire Company

Event: Fire Company’s Truck or Treat
When: Saturday, October 28 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Fire company’s station– 1200 Good Hope Road, Mechanicsburg
Details: Attendees can meet local firefighters, learn fire prevention tips, enjoy treats and food trucks offering Kokua Shaved Ice, Demiller and Mad Dash.

Lisburn Community Fire Company

Event: Fire Company’s Community Day
When: Thursday, October 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Fire company’s station– 1800 Main St., Mechanicsburg
Details: Apparatus will be on display and attendees can watch public safety demonstrations from firefighters and other first responders, enjoy a variety of food, participate in free activities including a bounce house, scavenger hunt with prizes and more. Additionally, for three dollars, attendees can go on a ferris wheel, kids fun house and merry-go-round.

Union Deposit Volunteer Fire Company

Event: Shop and Dine Fundraiser
When: Saturday, October 7 at 12 p.m.
Location: Fire company’s station– 101 Patriot Way, Hershey
Details: Attendees can participate in a raffle with the chance to win unique prizes, and shop at various food trucks at vendors dispersed around the firehouse.

Fire Prevention events at your local fire company are still being scheduled, so check www.CapitalRegionFirefighter.org/Fire-Prevention-Week-Events/ for updates throughout the next few weeks.

Now That You’re Ready to Keep Your Family Safe, Help Us Keep The Community Safe!

Interested in volunteering with your local fire company? There are a variety of volunteer opportunities for those interested in fighting fires or helping out in an administrative capacity behind the scenes. No experience is required to join, and training and gear are provided at no cost. To learn more and fill out a volunteer inquiry form, visit www.CapitalRegionFirefigher.org